The Best Daycare Centers in Abington, PA
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Abington. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Abington
The Goddard School of Abington
Goddard Systems, Inc.
The Goddard School of Abington offers a premier early childhood education program with F.L.EX.® Learning Program (Fun Learning Experience) that balances academic readiness with social development. Their state-of-the-art facility features secure entry systems, age-appropriate classrooms, and dedicated play areas. Highly qualified teachers implement play-based learning while focusing on literacy, STEM, and social-emotional development. The school maintains low student-to-teacher ratios and provides comprehensive safety protocols including background-checked staff and regular facility inspections. Parents appreciate the daily communication through the proprietary mobile app and the nutritious meal program included in tuition.
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Chesterbrook Academy Preschool
Spring Education Group
Chesterbrook Academy provides a comprehensive early education program with research-based curriculum that includes phonics-based literacy, hands-on mathematics, and science exploration. The school features purpose-built classrooms with interactive smart boards, dedicated infant rooms with separate sleeping areas, and secure outdoor playgrounds. Their academic approach emphasizes school readiness through structured learning centers and individualized attention. The center employs degreed early childhood educators and maintains enhanced security measures including keypad entry systems and comprehensive emergency protocols. The program includes enrichment activities such as music, Spanish, and physical education, with optional extracurricular programs available.
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Glenside Montessori School
Independent
Located just minutes from Abington in neighboring Glenside, this AMI-recognized Montessori school offers authentic Montessori education in a carefully prepared environment. The school features beautiful, sun-filled classrooms with traditional Montessori materials, peaceful outdoor gardens, and dedicated art and music spaces. Certified Montessori guides work with mixed-age classrooms to foster independence, concentration, and natural curiosity. The program emphasizes practical life skills, sensorial development, and individualized academic progress. Safety is prioritized with secure facilities, small class sizes, and thorough staff training. The school serves many Abington families and is known for its strong community atmosphere and excellent elementary school preparation.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Abington, PA
What are the typical costs for full-time daycare for an infant or toddler in Abington, PA?
In Abington, PA, full-time daycare costs can vary significantly based on the type of facility. For a licensed daycare center, you can expect to pay between $1,200 to $1,800 per month for infant care. Toddler care typically ranges from $1,000 to $1,500 per month. Home-based family childcare providers in the area often charge slightly less, averaging $800 to $1,300 monthly. These costs are influenced by factors like staff-to-child ratios, curriculum, facility amenities, and whether meals are included. It's important to note that Pennsylvania's Child Care Works subsidy program is available for eligible families in Montgomery County to help offset these expenses.
How do I verify that a daycare or preschool in Abington is properly licensed and has a good safety record?
All childcare providers in Abington must be licensed by the Pennsylvania Department of Human Services (DHS), Office of Child Development and Early Learning (OCDEL). You can verify a provider's license status and review their compliance history, including any violations, through the state's online **Child Care Finder** tool. Additionally, you can contact the **Montgomery County Early Childhood Resource Center** for local insights. When visiting a potential daycare, always ask to see their current license, their emergency preparedness plan (including for events like severe weather common in Southeastern PA), and their state-issued inspection reports from the last two years. Checking for accreditation from organizations like NAEYC or Keystone STARS (Pennsylvania's quality rating system) is also a strong indicator of a program's commitment to exceeding minimum standards.
Are there long waitlists for daycare centers in Abington, and how far in advance should I start looking?
Yes, waitlists are common for many daycare centers and highly-regarded preschools in Abington, especially for infant rooms which have the strictest staff-to-child ratios. It is strongly recommended that expecting parents begin their search and tours during the second trimester of pregnancy. For toddler or preschool spots, starting your search 6 to 9 months before your desired start date is advisable. Some centers with strong reputations near Abington's borders with Willow Grove or Glenside may have waitlists exceeding a year. To manage this, get on multiple waitlists (which may require a small fee), and consider a mix of centers and licensed family childcare homes, as home-based providers may have more immediate availability.
What are some of the key differences between the daycare centers in the Abington School District versus in-home family childcare?
Daycare centers within the Abington School District catchment area (and private centers in town) often provide a more structured, school-like environment with multiple classrooms divided by age, larger facilities, and potentially a broader curriculum. They may follow specific educational philosophies (Montessori, Reggio Emilia) and have more resources for special activities. In contrast, licensed family childcare homes in Abington offer a mixed-age, home-based setting, which can provide more flexible hours and a family-like atmosphere with smaller groups. They are often more affordable and may be more accommodating of non-standard work schedules. Your choice depends on your child's temperament, your need for flexibility, and your educational priorities. Both types are regulated by the same PA DHS licensing standards for health and safety.
Besides basic care, what enrichment or educational programs are commonly offered by Abington area daycares for preschool-aged children?
Many daycare centers and preschools in Abington emphasize school readiness aligned with Pennsylvania's Early Learning Standards. Common enrichment programs include structured literacy and math foundations, STEM activities, music and movement classes, and introductory Spanish. Given Abington's community resources, some programs may incorporate visits or themes related to the **Abington Art Center** or local parks like **Alverthorpe Park**. You'll also find programs with focuses on social-emotional learning (like the "Second Step" curriculum), outdoor/forest school elements, and technology integration. When touring, ask about their daily schedule, the qualifications of their lead teachers, and how they document and communicate your child's progress toward kindergarten readiness goals for the Abington School District.